Shy Drager syndrome

Shy Drager Syndrome (SDS) is a movement disorder which is often referred to as a parkinson plus syndrome or Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). For patients afflicted with this condition, rigidity and bradykinesia are the primary extrapyramidal symptoms which are present. The "plus" refers to autonomic nervous system dysfunction which leads to much of the disability seen in this disorder. Syncope, urinary incontinence, impotence, constipation, fecal incontinence, cardiac arrythmias as well as other symptoms occur as a result of widespread pathological changes in multiple areas of the central and autonomic nervous system. The goal of this paper is to provide an overview of the pathophysiology, signs and symptoms of and treatment for SDS. Nursing Care of the patient and family coping with Shy Drager Syndrome and the challenges it presents to the Movement Disorder Nurse are discussed. A coordinate, multidisciplinary team approach is suggested.